Fox Valley club plays Santa
The 300 or so new toys dropped off for disadvantaged children Saturday at the Salvation Army in St. Charles included an unusually high percentage of remote control models.
It was no wonder.
The toys were part of a van load collected by members of the Fox Valley Aero Club, one of the most progressive radio-controlled model airplane flying clubs in the Chicago metropolitan area, according to its Web site.
The club may also be one of the most generous.
Club president Dominic Saverino of St. Charles said the toys were collected at this year's Christmas party. Members then asked St. Charles Mayor Don DeWitte how he would like them distributed.
"We want to give back to the community of St. Charles," Saverino said. "Those who take care of others will eventually be taken care of," he reasoned.
"They call me every year to let me know the toys are for the charity that I choose," said DeWitte, who was on hand to help unload. "I'm thrilled to pass their efforts along and be a small part of it. Their generosity is most appreciated."
The toys from the Fox Valley Aero Club added to thousands already collected and dropped off at the Salvation Army through the Tri-Cities Toys for Kids program. Tables were stacked with dolls, puzzles and games for varied age groups.
According to Jennie Ziegert, social services director for the Salvation Army, families who have registered can come in before Christmas and choose up to three toys for each of their children.
"All the gifts stay here in the community," she said.
For information on donating, call Jim Wheeler at (630) 584-8356. Donations must be made no later than Thursday.